Heirloom Tomatoes
Growing Heirloom tomatoes is a challenge, but I like the unique colors, shapes and flavors.
And so do the restaurants I sell to!
Some people call them Ugly Tomatoes… I call them Charming, Interesting and Delicious!
When I’m not looking, my German Shepherd is a major predator! She loves tomatoes and figs - apples too.
A favorite summertime salad for me: Heirloom tomatoes and slaw!
Heirloom Tomato Tips
Avoid using fertilizer until the first fruit has set - otherwise, you’ll end up with huge, gorgeous, green leafy plants and few tomatoes. That Nitrogen really takes over if applied early on. A balanced fertilizer like 13-13-13 is fine once a month. I also give a light Phosphorous boost to help increase production.
Again, space your plants far apart - 3 to 4 feet is ideal. This lets plenty of sun and water get to each plant and helps reduce disease.
Pinch back suckers at the beginning to get your plants off to a good start.
I use 8 foot poles with soft rag ties to stake my plants.
And yes, I spray for fungus every 7-10 days or so, right after a harvest. It is safe to eat the tomatoes the day after spraying, but I prefer to wait several more. See Favorite Products for info.